Skip to main content

What this material is

Hoshen's professional guidance

This material reflects Hoshen's professional practice. It is not legislation and establishes no legal duty. Adapt it to your site, your risks and the requirements that apply to you.

Suggested length: 5–10 minutes

Why it matters

Electricity cannot be seen or heard, and injury from it happens too fast to react to. The cause is nearly always damaged equipment or work without isolation.

Key points

  1. 1.Electrical work is done only by a licensed electrician, holding the appropriate licence.
  2. 2.A damaged cable, broken plug or improvised extension is taken out of service immediately.
  3. 3.Before working on equipment — isolate, lock off and verify it is dead.
  4. 4.A distribution board is not storage, and is not left open.
  5. 5.Water and electricity do not mix. Electrical equipment in a wet area must be suitable for it.

What to check today

  • Is a cable with damaged insulation in use?
  • Are all distribution boards closed and accessible?
  • Is it known where to isolate in an emergency?

Discussion question

Who here knows where the main isolator is?

The Hoshen service

About this service

Reviewed on: 22 August 2026